Tuesday of the Holy Week
Isaiah 49: 1-6 John 13: 21-33. 36-38
Theme: The Betrayal
Today as we celebrate the liturgy for Tuesday in the Holy Week, the gospel presents to us the betrayal of the close allies of Jesus. He pointed out the fact that he knew the plan of Judas to betray him, and the fact that Peter was going to deny him too, three times. It would have been an opportunity for Judas to cancel his plan and forget about betraying his master, and for Peter to be mindful of what he says, because God has also hinted him about what was to happen. In the case of Peter, he had too much confidence in himself, and believed he cannot do such a time. But as events unfolded, he realised that in his assertion he made a grave mistake, by trusting in himself.
Ordinarily one would expect that Judas would have cancelled his plans when it became clear to him that Jesus was aware of his plans; but his greed for money did not stop him from carrying out his evil plot. Dear friends in Christ, the human greed and quest for money have led so many people astray and to their own damnation. We must do all within our power to be faithful and loyal to friends and all those who stand with us in good and bad times. Betrayal is evil and should not be found among the children of God, lest we end badly. Some of us hurt today because friends we trusted betrayed us for their selfish reasons.
We also see how Jesus admonished Peter, lest he falls into temptation; and it happened exactly as Jesus told him. In view of this, we must be careful about our assertions, lest we make the same mistake that Peter made. Learn to always trust in God, no matter the height you have attained in life. That was the mistake that was made by Peter. There is an extent to which your human strength can take you, and the grace of God will support you with whatever is left.
May God grant us the grace to be true followers of Christ, no matter the situation we find ourselves, and may Almighty God bless you, in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, Amen. Peace be with you.